Valentine's Day Is Not Far Away

So, I've been wearing out my Hearts Collection Framelits.  This is the second card I made the other day.  I'm really liking the new Framelits.  I don't have a lot of time this evening so I'm just going to show you the card and go do what I need to do.

Stamp Set:  Take It To Heart; Ink:  Real Red; Card Stock:  Very Vanilla, Red Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Big Shot, Decorative Label Punch, Vintage Wallpaper Embossing Folder, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stamping Sponge, Stampin' Dimensionals

If you'd like to know how you can become a demonstrator and start your own business, give me a call.  I would love to share the opportunity with you.  You can also find out more by clicking on the Join My Team tab at the top of the page.

Blessings from Marsha

Be Mine

This week has been busy watching six of my grandchildren so I've not had a lot of time to design.  I did manage to make two cards and one of them is shown below.  I've been having fun with the Hearts Collection Framelits that are coming out next week in our new Occasions Mini Catalog.

 Stamp Set:  Outlined Occasions; Inks:  Soft Suede, Real Red; Card Stock:  Crumb Cake, Very Vanilla, Red Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Big Shot, Hearts Collection Framelits, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stamping Sponge

Remember to get that last order in from the Holiday Mini Catalog by January 3rd.  You can order through my online store by clicking the button on the top right or just call or e-mail me with your order and payment information.

Blessings from Marsha

Take It To Heart

What a fantastic Christmas!  Time with family and friends.  Hustle and bustle.  I don't know about you but I'm glad it only comes once a year.  :-)  Now that it's behind me, I'm focusing on what to do for Valentine's Day.

It's been a hectic week, so I've not had much time to create.  Yesterday a friend and I decided it was time to get our fingers inky so we spent the afternoon designing and making cards.  It was a fun time and a perfect way to relax after the busyness of the holiday.

Stamp Sets:  Take It To Heart, You Are Loved, Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink:  Real Red; Card Stock:  River Rock, Love Patterns Designer Series Paper (from the Clearance Rack), Very Vanilla; Accessories:  Hearts Collection Framelits, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Spiral Punch (retired), Old Olive Library Clip (retired), Stampin' Dimensionals

I thought it was finished but now that I look at it again, I think it needs some sparkle.  So I'm off to add some Jewels Basic Rhinestones and maybe a little Dazzling Details. 

Don't forget to check out the Clearance Rack Blitz.  You have until January 5th to get some fantastic bargains with some discounts of up to 80%.  Visit my Online Store today to take advantage of these great deals.

Blessings from Marsha

Happy Birthday, Jesus

Santa Claus Is Coming To Town!

HO! HO! HO!

Merry Christmas!

May your holiday be filled with love, laughter and joy!

Blessings from Marsha

In Memory Of Sue Behrens Dorenkamp

You will be missed my dearest friend.  Someday we'll be roller skating together again.

Fresh Vintage Tangerine

Today's card is a clean and simple two-tone.  I wanted to try coloring some ribbon so chose the Tangerine Tango for my first try.  I really like the way that it deepened the color on the ribbon. It gave just the right amount of contrast.  I know I'll be doing this again!

Stamp Sets:  Fresh Vintage, Word Play; Ink:  Tangerine Tango; Card Stock: Tangerine Tango, Very Vanilla; Accessories:  5/8" Whisper White Organza Ribbon, Blossom Punch, Brayer, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots, Stamping Sponge

And, there you have it, another card featuring the Fresh Vintage Stamp Set from the upcoming Sale-A-Bration Catalog. 

Blessings from Marsha

Mixed Bunch Trio

Today's card is a take on one that I saw in my new demonstrator magazine but with a couple of variations.  It features product from the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog.  Mixed Bunch Stamp Set, Blossom Punch and Dazzling Details all combine to make a simple and easy card.

Stamp Sets:  Mixed Bunch, Tiny Tags; Inks:  Baha Breeze, Pool Party, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:  Sahara Sand, Baja Breeze, Calypso Coral, Lucky Limeade, Pool Party, Whisper White; Accessories:  Blossom Punch, Dotted Scallop Ribbon Punch, 1" Inch Circle Punch, Jewelry Tag, Punch, Cherry Cobbler Emboss Powder, VersaMark, Cherry Cobbler Dazzling Details, Stampin' Dimensionals, Silver Mini Brads

Don't forget to check out the Clearance Rack Blitz!  From now until January 5, 2012,  it's a savings blitz with discounts up to 80% off on select Stampin' Up!® product but only while supplies last!

Visit my Online Store today to take advantage of these great deals while supplies last!

Blessings from Marsha

Mixed Bunch Butterfly

After making a card using the Mixed Bunch Stamp Set and having punched an extra flower, I just had to try my hand at making a butterfly from the Mixed Bunch flower.  I got the idea after seeing the one shown on page 16 of the new Occasions Mini Catalog.  The whole card was made using up leftover card stock and ribbon.  The solid flowers were made using the punched out card stock as a stencil.

Stamp Sets:  Mixed Bunch, Four Frames, Teeny Tiny Wishes; Inks:  Rich Razzleberry, Pool Party; Card Stock:  Rich Razzleberry,  Very Vanilla, Pool Party; Accessories:  1/2" Very Vanilla Seam Binding Ribbon, Blossom Punch, Crystal Effects, Stamping Sponge, Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Dimensionals

Now it's time to concentrate on finishing up my Christmas gifts for my family.  I always seem to leave them until the last minute.

Blessings from Marsha

Nature's Nest Dragonfly

Wow!  Time flies when you are having fun!  I have a full schedule today and should have been paying closer attention to the clock.  Instead, I've been designing and making new cards.  Now I need to scramble to be ready in time to meet my number two son, Matthew, for a movie date.

Stamps: Nature's Nest, Swirls & Curls Verses (retired); Ink:  Soft Suede, Stampin' Write Markers in Soft Suede, So Saffron; Card Stock:  Very Vanilla, Soft Suede; Accessories:  Smooch Spritz Vanilla Shimmer, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stampin' Dimensionals

And, there you have it.  I'm keeping this one short and sweet.  After all, it is the weekend and you're not supposed to have to work, right?  It's hard not to work given my "work" is fun and relaxing and creative.  Wouldn't you like work like mine?  Contact me either by e-mail or phone and ask me how that can be.

Blessings from Marsha

Nature's Nest Birthday

Do you ever leave things until the last minute?  That's not necessarily a good thing when you have to design and make a card and it's being picked up the next day.  Two weeks ago Ron, my Schwan's delivery man, asked me to design a card for his daughter's birthday.

So, fast forward to last evening, which just happens to be Thursday, and I haven't even started on the card.  Between delivering an order, having dinner with my number two son and his family, grocery shopping and a nice long chat with Jean, my late night phone buddy, you can just see the time slipping away.

The nice thing about late night phone buddies, is that it's a good way to brainstorm ideas.  Jean happens to be a very talented Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator so we were on the phone until 2 a.m. chatting while I'm working on the card.  In between the talk about stamps and ink and catalogs and clearance rack items, I ran ideas by her for the card and she made suggestions of things that could work. It was fun and I actually managed to make two cards.

Here is the first card I designed and the one that Ron chose.  The dragonfly was really fun and I want to thank Kathryn Ricks for graciously stamping and sending me the images all the way from Utah!

Stamp Sets:  Nature's Nest, Just Believe, Take It To Heart, Word Play; Inks:  Night of Navy, Cajun Craze, Stampin' Write Markers in Baja Breeze, So Saffron, Wild Wasabi, Basic Gray; Card Stock: Cajun Craze, Baja Breeze, Watercolor Paper; Accessories:  Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder, Jewels Basic Pearls, Smooch Spritz Vanilla Shimmer, Stampin' Dimensionals, Heat Tool, Stamping Sponge

Tomorrow I'll show you the other card I designed.  Now, don't forget to take advantage of the Clearance Rack Blitz going on in the online store.  Click the 'Order Stampin' Up!® Online' button on the upper right and get them while supplies last!

Blessings from Marsha

Clearance Rack Blitz Begins Today!

From December 15, 2011, through January 5, 2012, nearly 200 products are being added to the Clearance Rack in the Online Store at discounts up to 80% off the retail price!

Visit my Online Store today to take advantage of these great deals while supplies last!

Blessings from Marsha

Fresh Vintage

Getting up early has it advantages.  After making coffee, I sat down at my work table and decided to use up what was left from yesterday's design adventure.  This card can be used for Valentine's Day or for an anniversary or a thinking of you card.  Again, I clear embossed the sentiment on the inside of the card.  I used the "You're in my thoughts; You're in my heart" from Word Play.  I love the way the clear emboss deepens the card stock color.  On the Soft Suede, it turns into a rich chocolate brown.

Stamp Sets:  Fresh Vintage, Word Play; Ink:  Soft Suede; Card Stock:  Soft Suede, Very Vanilla, Red Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  3/8" Very Vanilla Velvet Ribbon, Antique Brad, Jewels Basic Pearls, Framelits Hearts Collection, Multipurpose Liquid Glue, Mini Glue Dots

Fresh Vintage is featured in the new Sale-A-Bration Catalog.  For the first time ever, Stampin' Up!® allowed demonstrators to get Sale-A-Bration products early.  This card uses one of the items you can receive as part of the Hostess Bundle.  So, schedule your Workshop during Sale-A-Bration. Host a $400 Workshop during Sale-A-Bration and you'll receive the Fresh Vintage Stamp Set, Everyday Enchantment Designer Series Paper and Everyday Enchantment Ribbon & Brad Pack. Plus, you'll receive a free tote, a 1/2 price item and $65 in free product.  Oh, and you can select one product from the Sale-A-Bration Catalog for every $50 you spend.  What a great time to be a Hostess!

My Sale-A-Bration calendar is filling up fast, so don't delay.  Contact me today to save the date for your Workshop today!

Blessings from Marsha

Take It To Heart

Now that my Christmas crafting is winding down, I was in the mood to do something different.  I'm really excited about the new product featured in our new Occasions Mini Catalog.  Many of you may have already received your copy.  If not, let me know and I'll put you on the list to send you one.

Today's card is made with new products found in the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog.  The Take It To Heart and the Hearts Collection Framelits Dies are the perfect match.  With Valentine's Day looming on the horizon, it just seemed right to let a little love shine.

Stamp Sets:  Take It To Heart, You Are Loved, Tiny Tags; Inks: Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Real Red, Stampin' Write Markers in Certainly Celery, Pretty In  Pink, Pink Pirouette, Calypso Coral, So Saffron; Card Stock:  Soft Suede, Watercolor Paper, Red Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Big Shot, Hearts Collection Framelits Dies, Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder, Dazzling Diamonds Stampin' Glitter, VersaMark, Jewelry Tag, Heat Tool, Silver Mini Brad, Stampin' Dimensionals, SNAIL Adhesive. Blender Pen

On the inside of the card, I stamped the Happy Valentine's Day sentiment from the You Are Loved Stamp Set with VersaMark and embossed it with a mixture of Clear Stampin' Emboss Powder and Dazzling Diamonds Glitter.  It added just the right amount of sparkle on the inside to match the sparkle in the Red Glimmer Paper on the outside.

And now, since I've forgotten mealtime again, I'm off to grab a bite to eat and keep working on next years' schedule as new classes are being added.  Stay tuned for what will be on the menu at the Coffee Pot Stamping Cafe!

Blessings from Marsha

Christmas Lodge Ornaments

It was a great weekend.  Friday night my five year old and six year old grandsons spent the night with me.  Mom and Dad had a company Christmas party to attend so Gran offered to keep the little people overnight.  We had a grand time.  On Saturday, they helped me put up the tree and had a ball.  We sang Christmas songs and I loved having them help.  It didn't give me much time to create but I wouldn't trade the time with them for anything!  

A few months ago a friend gave me a bunch of round and square white coasters.  I got the bright idea to making ornaments out of some of them.  I kept these very simple just to get a feel for how they would look.  The next ones are going to have a rosette layer.

Stamp Set:  Christmas Lodge; Ink: Old Olive;  Card Stock:  Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper (retired), Very Vanilla; Accessories:  Round White Coaster, Pewter Emboss Powder, 5/8" Whisper White Organdy Ribbon, Dazzling Details

Stamp Set:  Christmas Lodge; Ink:  Old Olive; Card Stock:  Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper (retired), Very Vanilla; Accessories:   Round White Coaster, Red Twill Ribbon, Pewter Emboss Powder, Dazzling Details (colored with Cherry Cobbler re-inker)

And that is all I have for today.  I'll be back tomorrow.

Blessings from Marsha

Technical Glitch All Fixed Up

As  promised, I wanted to let you know that you can now click on all the links to my Stampin' Up!® website.  I'm so thankful that it didn't take long to get it all worked out.

Now that all the problems are resolved, stay tuned for some of the Christmas tree decorations I've been making.

Blessings from Marsha

A Technical Glitch

Due to a technical problem within the company, you will not be able to access my Stampin' Up!® website at this time.  As soon as it is up and running again, I will let you know.

In the meantime, if you need to place an order, please e-mail with all of your order and payment information at marsha@coffeepotstampingcafe.com.  Or, you may call me at the number listed at the top of my blog.

Please forgive the inconvenience.

Blessings from Marsha

Raining Flowers

Technically, here in Iowa, it is snowing snowflakes and it's cold.  I'd rather have flowers.  As promised, it is now Raining Flowers. This is a two-step stamp set and so much fun to use.  I have some other ideas but suddenly have several orders that need to take priority over my just sitting down and having fun creating.  So, without further fanfare, here is the card I designed using the Raining Flowers stamp set.

Stamp Sets:  Raining Flowers, My Friend; Inks:  Real Red, Whisper White Craft; Card Stock:  Real Red, Crumb Cake, Whisper White; Accessories:  Real Red Polka Dot Grosgrain Ribbon (Retired), Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stampin' Dimensionals

You only have a few short weeks to get those favorite products from the Holiday Mini Catalog.  January 3rd is the last day you can place your order.  At this time, I don't know what will carry over so don't lose out on that one must have item.  To place an order, click the order button in the top right sidebar.

Blessings from Marsha

Mixed Bunch Thank You

Yesterday I had the privilege of dining with some wonderful friends.  Kay called earlier in the day and invited me over for supper.  It was just what I needed.  Good food and good conversation.  Her husband, Jerry, is the one I always turn to any time I have a computer issue.  He has gotten me out of more than one technical jam, usually of my own making.  I am somewhat technically challenged even though I love all the gadgets available to us today.  Kay shared with me albums she has been putting together for several years.  They were wonderful!  She uses magazine pages, written pages, old cards, etc. and puts them altogether into three ring binders in page protectors.  I enjoyed going through them last night.

My order arrived yesterday, but the only thing I had time for was to inventory the contents of the box.  I wanted to play with them but just did not have the time.  Chasing a two year old is an ongoing marathon!  Once Mom picked up the little man, it was time to get ready to head over to Jerry and Kay's.

When I returned home, I got busy and designed a thank you card for them.  With the hour getting late, I decided to do a very clean and simple card.  The inside of the card has another Mixed Bunch Blossom that I stamped a sentiment on before punching with the new Blossom Punch.  The Mixed Bunch stamp set and the Blossom Punch are new products from our new Occasions Mini Catalog. 

Stamp Sets: Mixed Bunch, Because I Care (Retired); Ink:  Island Indigo; Card Stock: Island Indigo, Whisper White; Accessories: Antique Brads, Blossom Punch, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Modern Label Punch, Stampin' Sponge, Stampin' Dimensionals

The card stock looks more green than indigo.  I'm thinking I need a new camera.  Lately, this one has not been giving me good quality photos.  Sigh... wonder if Santa can find one for me?  :-)

Now I'm off to finish up that Raining Flowers design I mentioned the other day.

Blessings from Marsha

Elegant Thank You

With the busyness of the season, I've not had much time to sit down and create much other than gifts for family and friends.  But, now that Christmas is just a couple of weeks away, it has me thinking of all those thank you cards that will need to be sent to those who bless us with a gift.  The card I'm sharing with you today, is a clean and simple one.  Sometimes less is more.

Stamp Set:  Elegant Thank You; Ink:  Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:   Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, DSP (uncertain); Accessories:  Dotted Scallop Ribbon Border Punch

One of the perks of being a Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator, is I've had the chance to see the new Occasions Mini Catalog and the new Sale-A-Bration Catalog.  My order from both comes tomorrow and I can't wait to show you what I create.  So, stay tuned for a preview of things to come.

Blessings from Marsha

I Love Flowers!

Today is turning out to be one very busy day and I'm not sure I'll have time to post a new creation.  With the weather turning absolutely frigid, I was in need of a little bit of warm.  Nothing cheers me up faster than a beautiful flower.  Since blue is my favorite color and roses are my second favorite flower, I found the perfect combination of both. 

Isn't this one beautiful flower?  I think some flowers are in the future for my stamping.  I have the Raining Flowers stamp set that I've not had much chance to play with.  Once my other obligations for today are out of the way, I'm going to go flower crazy.

Enjoy the rose and I'll post the Raining Flowers creations just as soon as I get them finished.

Blessings from Marsha

25 And Counting

Last Thursday evening a local group of Stampin' Up!® Demonstrators got together for dinner at the Ankeny Olive Garden.  We did a gift swap and oh, what wonderful gifts were created.  As the days go by I will share them with you but for today, I'm sharing my CASE of one of the gifts I received.  It's another take on the Advent Calendar and such a great way to countdown the days to Christmas.  I can remember the Advent Calendars from my childhood.  We had one every year and it was with great anticipation that we opened each days' window.

Stamp Sets:  25 & Counting, Christmas Lodge; Inks:  Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Forest Green StazOn; Card Stock:  Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper, Cherry Cobbler, Whisper White, Garden Green; Accessories:  1" Square Punch, Postage Stamp Punch, Decorative Label Punch, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, 3/8" Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin Ribbon, Crop-A-Dile, Stampin' Dimensionals

Today I plan to do more creating as well as getting ready for a Scentsy party I am hosting.  I'm looking forward to all the fun!

Blessings from Marsha

Navy Blush Anniversary

Although I like all of the cards I made, this one is my favorite.  Of course that could have to do with the fact I used a blue.  Blue is my favorite color.  This card used up the last of my Blushing Bride card stock.  It is a color I don't ordinarily use but I really like this shade of pink.  I think it would make a good choice for some of the Valentine's Day cards I want to design.

Stamp Sets:  Three Little Words, Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink:  Night of Navy; Card Stock:  Night of Navy, Blushing Bride, Whisper White; Accessories:  Scallop Oval Punch, Large Oval Punch, Eyelet Border Punch, 5/8" Night of Navy Grosgrain Ribbon (retired), Bitty Buttons, Jewels Basic Rhinestones

And, there you have it, three beautiful cards.  Now I'm off to finish up a countdown to Christmas project.  I'll share it with you tomorrow.

Blessings from Marsha

You Are Loved Anniversary

When asked to make an anniversary card and told pink was his wife's favorite color, I realized I didn't have much pink and probably not enough to do an entire card.  Surprise, I found one sheet of Blushing Bride so wanted to make as many cards with it as possible.  Yesterday's card was made from half of the card stock.  This one was inspired by the fact that, when I tried to tear it along a ruler with a decorative edge, it didn't go as well as I had hoped.  When I accidentally bent and put a crease in that wasn't wanted, in frustration, I crumpled the whole thing in my hand.  Then, smoothed it out and decided to see how I could use it.

Stamp Sets:  You Are Loved, Raining Flowers, Teeny Tiny Wishes; Inks:  Soft Suede, Crumb Cake, Card Stock:  Blushing Bride, Very Vanilla; Accessories: Word Window Punch, 3/8" Soft Suede Taffeta Ribbon, Stampin' Sponge, Stampin' Dimensionals, Dazzling Details, Small Oval Punch (retired), Jewels Basic Rhinestones (colored with permanent marker)

I am really liking the new stamp set, You Are Loved, from the Holiday Mini.  And, come Wednesday, my order from the upcoming Occasions Mini Catalog and Sale-A-Bration Catalog will be here and I can start sharing some new and fantastic products with you.  There are a lot of great new products and I already have several ideas in mind for some Valentine's Day cards and gifts.

And, there you have it.  The second card made using the only sheet of Blushing Bride card stock on my shelf.  Later, I'll show you the last one I made in the trio.

Blessings from Marsha

Happy Anniversary Sparkle

It was fun to finally get a chance to be creative.  It's been a busy time since Thanksgiving and I feel like I've just caught my first deep breath!  I made three cards Friday afternoon using one sheet of Blushing Bride card stock and, over the weekend, I'll show you how I used it.

I love Stampin' Up!® Glimmer paper!  It shimmers and sparkles and grabs the eye.  When asked to design an anniversary card,  I knew I wanted to use it to add some glitz to the card. On the inside of the card in Regal Rose, I stamped the sentiment, "You're in my thoughts; You're in my heart," from the Word Play stamp set.

Stamp Sets:  You Are Loved, Language of Friendship, Teeny Tiny Wishes, Word Play; Inks:  Crumb Cake, Regal Rose, Old Olive Stampin' Write Marker; Card Stock:  Blushing Bride, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Dotted Scalloped Ribbon Border Punch, Modern Label Punch, Word Window Punch, Bird Builder Punch, Boho Blossoms Punch, Big Shot Die-Cutting Machine, Jewels Basic Pearls, Stampin' Dimensionals, SNAIL Adhesive

If you would like free instructions for making the Dotted Scalloped Ribbon Border square, e-mail me at the address above and I'll send it right out to you.

Blessings from Marsha

Happy Thanksgiving

May you have a blessed Thanksgiving.  May your day be filled with love, laughter and joy!

I am so looking forward to Jody's pumpkin pie!  She makes it right from the pumpkin.  No canned stuff for her!

Blessings from Marsha

A Merry Christmas!

For my last Christmas Card Class, I wanted to do something fun and easy and sparkly.  Since I love the sparkly of our Glimmer Paper, which comes in red or silver, it was the perfect choice for some pretty packages.  

Stamp Set:  Bells & Boughs, God's Blessings; Ink:  Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:  Night of Navy, Naturals White, Red Glimmer Paper, Silver Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Decorative Label Punch, Postage Stamp Punch, Blossom Bouquet Triple Layer Punch, Snow Burst Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Stampin' Dimensionals, Stamping Sponge

The inside of the card is stamped using Cherry Cobbler ink and a sentiment from the God's Blessing stamp set.

My schedule is filling up fast, so contact me soon set the date for your next Workshop date.  Our new Occasions Mini Catalog is coming out soon and you won't want to miss all the great new products.

Blessings from Marsha

The Online Extravganza Is Coming!

The Online Extravaganza, our annual sale to kick off the holiday shopping season, begins Monday, November 21, 2011 and continues through Wednesday, November 30, 2011.

Savings include... FREE digital downloads valued at $40 when you buy My Digital Studio Express, 60 % off select Designer Fabrics and 30% off an exclusive ribbon bundle!

And... there will be two items on sale for 24 hours only (November 21, 12:01 AM - 11:59 PM (MT) - so make sure you don't miss the first 24 hours of the Online Extravaganza!

These deals are only available online.  To see them all and take advantage of the savings...

Log in on Monday, November 21, to my Online Store, look around, find out what the two special items anre and then, place your Holiday Online Extravaganza order!

Note:  When you place your qualifying order on my Demonstrator Business Website, you will be eligible for all the usual Hostess Benefits.

Veterans Day Tribute

To all of our service men and women who are serving, who have served and who gave their lives, Thank You.  I, for one, appreciate the sacrifices that you have made and continue to make.

I want to share a photo I came across during my research yesterday.  It is not my photo and I do not know who took it but I thank the anonymous photographer.

May God continue to bless our great nation.  May He protect those who keep it free.

Blessings from Marsha

Happy Holidays

I just can't seem to get away from making Christmas cards.  :-)  I'm usually the one who doesn't even think of Christmas until after Thanksgiving has come and gone.  Not this year!  With all the wonderful stamp sets from Stampin' Up!®, I have really gotten hooked on the Holidays.

Today's card is quick and easy and features stamps from our Christmas Lodge stamp set.  On the inside of the card, I stamped the sentiment, "May the miracle of Christmas find you safe in the Peace of God, warm in the Light of Christ" from the God's Blessings stamp set.  I really like the way it turned out.

Stamp Sets:  Christmas Lodge, God's Blessings; Inks:  Cherry Cobbler, Old Olive, Soft Suede; Card Stock:  Naturals White; Accessories:  3/8" Cherry Cobbler Quilted Satin Ribbon, Sponge

Want to learn how to make this card?  Schedule a Workshop and I'll show you and your friends how easy it is to make beautiful cards for your friends and family.  Call or e-mail me.  You'll find that information at the top of my blog.

Blessings from Marsha

Happy Birthday to the United States Marine Corps!

Today is the Marine Corps birthday.  I have been doing some research and it is a fascinating history.  I wanted to post a picture of my brother, Lance Corporal Larry Dean Borschel, in his dress uniform but I don't have one.  He served from 1963 to 1965 when he was killed in action in Vietnam.

The card I'm sharing is one that I made a few months ago but want to share it again.  Because of my brother's sacrifice and the sacrifice of so many other service men and women,  The Star Spangled Banner yet waves because of those who are fighting and have fought for our country.

Stamp Set:  Land of the Free; Inks:  Real Red, Night of Navy; Card Stock:  Real Red, Night of Navy, Whisper White; Accessories:  1-1/4" Not Quite Navy Grosgrain Ribbon, White Stampin' Emboss Powder, Brayer

Here is a bit of what I found during my research.

The Marines' Hymn 
From the halls of Montezuma, to the shores of Tripoli,
We fight our country's battles in the air, on land and sea.
First to fight for right and freedom, and to keep our honor clean;
We are proud to claim the title of United States Marine.
Our Flag's unfurled to every breeze from dawn to setting sun.
We have fought in every clime and place, where we could take a gun.
In the snow of far off northern lands and in sunny tropic scenes, You will find us always on the job, the United States Marines.
Here's health to you and to our Corps, which we are proud to serve.
In many a strife we've fought for life and never lost our nerve.
If the Army and the Navy ever look on heaven's scenes,
they will find the streets are guarded by United States Marines.

The Marines' Prayer
Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose in deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family. Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Make me considerate of those committed to my leadership. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold. If I am inclined to doubt; steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Amen.

Happy 236th Birthday!

Semper Fi!

A Successful Workshop!

We had such fun at tonight's Workshop!  We made a card that I had designed last week and it was a big hit.  They loved learning how to emboss.  The tree from the Christmas Lodge stamp set is perfect for embossing.  The Pewter Emboss Powder and the Silver Glimmer Paper make this card so sparkly and shimmery.  Although I shared this with you all last week, I'm going to post it again as I've not designed a new one today.  With getting ready for tonight, I just simply ran out of time.

Stamp Sets:  Christmas Lodge, Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink: Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:  Basic Black, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Pewter Emboss Powder, Modern Label Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Heat Tool

It's late and I have such a busy day tomorrow that I'm going to keep this post short.  I'll fill you in on all the happens tomorrow.

Blessings from Marsha

Just Add Cake!

My youngest grandson's birthday was November 2nd.  He is now two and such a little character.  He's the life of the party and today Mom & Dad had a family gathering to celebrate the event.  Dad made his famous potato soup and it sure was delicious.  Mom made two very tasty cakes. By the time the crew of family and friends had soup and were caked and ice creamed up, nearly everything was gone.

I sat down this afternoon and made Aiden's birthday card.  I am really enjoying the Peekaboo Frames Die.  It has turned out to be one of my favorites from the Holiday Mini Catalog.  The first photo is a close up of the window I made from the Silver Glimmer Paper.

Stamp Sets:  Forest Friends (retired), Punch Bunch (retired), God's Blessings; Ink:  Island Indigo; Card Stock:  Island Indigo, Very Vanilla, Just Add Cake Designer Series Paper, Silver Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Bigz L Peekaboo Frames Die, 1/2" Circle Punch, Sponge Dauber, Stampin' Dimensionals, Jewels Basic Pearls, Eyelet Border Punch, Tempting Turquoise Emboss Powder, VersaMark

I used the birthday sentiment from the God's Blessings Stamp Set and embossed it in Tempting Turquoise Emboss Powder on the inside of the card.  The contrast with the Island Indigo Card Stock was really nice.

Tomorrow I'm going to play with the Peekaboo Frames Die again and design a Christmas card for Tuesday night's Workshop.

Blessings from Marsha

Holiday Stocking

Today was spent exploring options for an upcoming Workshop I have on Tuesday.  My Hostess wants a Christmas card as our make and take.  I'm wanted to use the new dies but just wasn't sure in what manner.  I decided to use the Holiday Stocking Die and place the card stock in such a way as to have a fold along the left so it actually forms a card.  You could use it as a card or a large tag on a gift bag.  I used the Peekaboo Die to made a window in which to hide the sentiment.  I love that Glimmer Paper, both the Silver and the Red.

The first photo shows the window up close.  The second is of the card itself.  I'm thinking I need a new camera because my photos of late have not been as good as when I first purchased the camera.  The colors are just not right but at least you'll get the idea.  Looks like a shopping expedition is in my future.

Stamp Set:  Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink:  Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:  Pool Party, Silver Glimmer Paper, Jolly Holiday Designer Series Paper (retired); Accessories:  Big Shot, Bigz L Holiday Stocking Die, Bigz L Peekaboo Frames Die

There is still time to get your own Big Shot.  Become a Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator by November 11th and you get one FREE!  For details, click here.

Blessings from Marsha

Yes, It Is Good To Be A Hostes!

From now through December 15, a Hostess can earn an extra $35 in additional Stampin' Up!® products when they host a $350 workshop. Schedule your Workshop today!  Click the image above for more information.

 And, you still have time to get that FREE Big Shot!  You have until November 11th to sign up to become a Stampin' Up!®  Or, you could choose up to $100 in Free products.  But time is getting short, sign up today.

Blessings from Marsha

Christmas in Black, White And Silver

It's been such a busy week and this is only Tuesday.  I've not had a lot of time to create in the last few days so tonight I decided to make a quick and easy card.  I wanted to do something different so I chose black, white and silver.  I've never done a Christmas card with this combination.  Who would think that black and white would work.  I love the Christmas Lodge tree.  It is perfect for embossing.  I added just a touch of color when stamping the sentiment.

Stamp Sets:  Christmas Lodge, Teeny Tiny Wishes; Ink: Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:  Basic Black, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Pewter Emboss Powder, Modern Label Punch, Stampin' Dimensionals, Heat Tool

That's it for today.  Watch for tomorrow's post as I have plenty of good news to share.

Blessings from Marsha

An Extremely Busy Day!

It has been a whirlwind of activity here in my humble abode.  With the Holiday Bazaar tomorrow, I've been finishing up projects and making lists and hoping I don't forget anything tomorrow.  I guess that will remain to be seen.

I've not had a chance to create today so I'm sharing a card I made a couple of months ago.  I used it for a swap last night at a monthly meeting of local Stampin' Up!® Demonstrators.  I think I shared about it in my last post.  It is one of the first Christmas cards I made when the new Idea Book & Catalog came out in July.

Stamp Set:  Easy Events; Inks:  StazOn Black, Wild Wasabi Stampin' Write Marker, Real Red; Card Stock:  Old Olive, Whisper White, Cherry Cobbler, Frostwood Lodge Designer Series Paper; Accessories:  Decorative Label Punch, 5/8" Whisper White Organza Ribbon, Starburst Jumbo Wheel

This is the end of today's post as I still have many things to do before I can get a few minutes of sleep.  Don't forget to order your two Simply Sent kits and receive a free stamp set.  I've seen some lovely cards made with these kits.  The offer ends on Monday, October 31st.

Blessings from Marsha

You Are Loved

It is always a good time to let someone know that you love them.  I think it should be stated on a daily basis to those important to you.  The You Are Loved stamp set from the Holiday Mini Catalog is so versatile.  My next card is specifically for Valentine's Day but could easily be altered for a birthday or anniversary or just to let someone know they are loved.

 

Stamp Set:  You Are Loved; Ink:  Real Red; Card Stock:  Whisper White, Red Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Vintage Wallpaper Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Whisper Whtie 5/8" Organza Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Dimensionals, Decorative Label Punch

But let's not forget Christmas!  You still have time to sign up for the next, and last, Christmas Card Class.  It's scheduled for Monday, November 21st from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m.  Be sure to register using the button in the left sidebar if you are paying by credit card.  If you choose to pay by cash or check, RSVP with payment no later than Monday, November 14th.  We will make 10 cards (envelopes included) for $25.  If you need more cards, you can make them for $2.50 each.

For a complete list of events scheduled at the Coffee Pot Stamping Cafe, click on the Stamping Events 2011 tab at the top of my blog.

Blessings from Marsha

Don't Miss Your BIG Opportunity!

It's not too late for you to join the fun and excitement of being a Stampin' Up!® demonstrator.  And, when you sign up during October, you'll receive a FREE Big Shot or up to $100 in free Stampin' Up!® products of your choice!

There is only one week left to take advantage of this opportunity.  Don't delay, sign up today!

This Thanksgiving card was made using the Top Note Die run through the Big Shot.  It is just one example of what you can do with the Big Shot.  The possibilities are endless!

Rememeber, October 31st is the last day you can sign up to become a demonstrator and get the FREE Big Shot.

Blessings from Marsha

Merry Christmas

My favorite holiday of the year is Christmas.  I love the hustle and bustle and the glitz and glitter and the lights and the smells!  The day after Thanksgiving does not find me out shopping, it finds me dragging out all the decorations and the tree.  By the time Sunday rolls around my home has been transformed into my very own winter wonder land!

My next card features the tree from our Christmas Lodge Stamp Set.  Blue and silver have always been a color combination I like.  The tree was embossed with Pewter Embossing Powder.   

Stamp Set:  Christmas Lodge; Ink:  Night of Navy; Card Stock:  Night of Navy, Whisper White, Silver Glimmer Paper; Accessories:  Pewter Stampin' Emboss Powder, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Cherry Cobbler 3/8" Quilted Satin Ribbon, Mini Glue Dots, Stampin' Dimensionals

Don't forget to place your order soon for the Simply Sent kits.  Come the end of the month, the special will be over.

Blessings from Marsha

Always Thankful

Over the weekend I participated in another llama blog hop.  Now that I've shared my projects over there, I'll show them here, one by one, so you can see what cards I designed.  The hop was all about the holidays. 

This card is for Thanksgiving.  I always enjoyed Thanksgiving as it was just the first of the family gatherings we had during the holidays.  Each year a different family hosted and lots of food, fun and laughter.  We were quite a bunch when we all got together.

Stamp Set:  Always Thankful; Ink:  Soft Suede; Card Stock:  Soft Suede, Spice Cake Designer Series Paper, Very Vanilla; Accessories:  Big Shot, Stripes Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, 3/8" Velvet Stitched Ribbon, Decorative Label Punch, Jewels Basic Pearls, Stamping Sponge, Stampin' Dimensionals

Like the card?  Well, leave a comment here or send me an e-mail at marsha@coffeepotstampingcafe.com with your name and e-mail address and I'll send you the card.  You have until midnight Monday, October 24 to respond.  There is only one card, so be the first to contact me and it is yours.

Blessings from Marsha

It's Another Llama Blog Hop!

The llamas are ready for another blog hop.  This one will be all about the Holidays.  We have so many talented llama ladies that it will be interesting to see what designs they'll have to share.

I just finished my post on my llama blog and I encourage all of you to hop on over and check it out.  Just click Here A Llama, There A Llama and away you'll go.  And, don't forget to visit each blog to enjoy all the great ideas.

See you at the Hop!

Blessings from Marsha

Lucky Limeade And Perfect Plum!

In just one short week, I have a Holiday Bazaar where I'll be showing and selling the products I've made using Stampin' Up!® supplies. I have so much to get done. Along with making product for the Bazaar, I have a blog hop, two swaps and several birthday cards to design for family to get done all within the next two week time frame. Guess I'm going to be one busy little stamper!

The card set below is one that will be available for sale at the Holiday Bazaar. It holds five 3x3 cards along with envelopes and a pen.

If you'd like more details on the product used and I how I made the set, leave a comment or e-mail me at marsha@coffeepotstampingcafe.com.

Blessings from Marsha

Are You Ready To Be Your Own Boss?

Do you enjoy crafting?  Wouldn't you love to earn money while doing something you enjoy?  And, what about the convenience of setting your own hours?  If you find that appealing, then Stampin' Up!® is the right opportunity for you.

Creating beautiful cards, scrapbook pages and 3-D projects is something I love to do.  I also enjoy helping others explore their creativity by sharing what I do.  Sharing my passion for stamping, meeting new people and having the chance to build my own business are just a few reasons that made me decide to become a Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator.  I also get to set my own schedule!

Other great benefits of being a Stampin’ Up!® demonstrator, include:

• A 20 percent product discount!
• A free monthly issue of Stampin’ Up!’s demonstrator-only magazine, Stampin’ Success!
• Sneak peeks at brand-new products!
• Invitations to exclusive Stampin’ Up!® events!
• Regular get togethers to stamp!
• Free access to an online community of 30,000+ crafters/stampers and creative artists, as well as 160,000+ project samples!

Now is a great time to become a Stampin' Up!® Demonstrator.  Throughout the month of October, you'll get a FREE Big Shot (or up to $100 in Free Stampin' Up!® products) when you sign up to be a Demonstrator.

Contact me today for more information! 

What Do You Do When You Can't Sleep?

Tonight, or should I say last night, was one of those nights for me.  So, what do I do?  I just dig out the stamps and ink.  Daring Adventure is another of the new stamp sets found in the 2011-2012 Idea Book & Catalog.  This card was quick and easy to put together.

Stamp Set:  Daring Adventure; Ink:  Cherry Cobbler; Card Stock:  Pool Party, Cherry Cobbler; Accessories:  Eyelet Border Punch, 1/2" Seam Binding Ribbon, Jewels Basic Rhinestones, Stampin' Dimensionals, Mini Glue Dots

The inside of the card is stamped using the Helen Keller sentiment, "Life is a DARING ADVENTURE or Nothing."  She is a woman who I greatly admire.

So, tell me, what do you do when you can't sleep?  Leave me a comment and share your remedy.

Blessings from Marsha

What Is A Workshop, You Ask?

A Stampin' Up!® Workshop is a creative event you host in your home and invite your friends to enjoy an evening of stamping fun guided by your own personal creative coach.  When you host a Workshop, you'll see new project ideas, learn different techniques and make a project that is yours to keep.

Click here to check my event calendar and find a date that's right for you.  I will help make it a fun-filled event for you and your friends as you all explore your own creativity!

And let's not forget the wonderful Hostess Benefits available to you for hosting your Workshop.

Contact me today to schedule your very own creative workshop.  You'll be glad you did!


Blessings from Marsha

Precious Butterflies

We have been experiencing our Indian Summer here in Iowa and the butterflies have been flitting past my living room window in recent days.  They made me think of a new Hostess stamp set I've been wanting to use.  My time to create was limited today so I thought a clean and simple design would be perfect for Precious Butterflies.

Stamp Set:  Precious Butterflies; Inks:  River Rock, Concord Crush; Card Stock:  River Rock, Concord Crush, Whisper White; Accessories:  Stripes Textured Impressions Embossing Folder, Jewels Basic Rhinestones ( six colored with permanent marker), Beautiful Wings Embosslits Die

I stamped the images and sentiment on the oval before I ran it though the Big Shot using the Stripes Embossing Folder.

If you'd like to know how you can receive the beautiful Precious Butterflies Stamp Set, e-mail me for details.

Blessings from Marsha